Top 10 city guides + Barcelona | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/series/top10cityguides+barcelona
Indexen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Tue, 03 Mar 2015 19:32:48 GMT2015-03-03T19:32:48Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
Top 10 free things to do in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/17/top-10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelona
<p>From<i> </i> Gaudi and Picasso to street parties and outdoor movies, we pick the best attractions and local haunts to help you enjoy Barcelona for free<br></p><p>See our guides to <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/apr/09/top-10-free-things-to-do-in-new-york">New York for free</a> and <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/mar/25/top-10-free-things-to-do-paris">Paris for free</a><br></p><ul><li><strong> Is there anything we've missed? Tell us your favourite free things to do in Barcelona in the comments below</strong></li></ul><p>Barcelona is the birthplace and cradle of Catalan modernism from the late-19th and early-20th-century, and modernist architecture can be seen all over the city. Its main exponent was Antoni Gaud&iacute;, designer of <a href="http://www.parkguell.cat">Park G&uuml;ell </a> - the jewel in Barcelona's modernist crown. The city recently introduced a €7 entry fee for the park, but you can still see some of his masterpieces from the outside: Casa Batll&oacute; and La Pedrera are both spectacular examples. Check out the <a href="http://www.rutadelmodernisme.com/default.aspx?idioma=en&amp;contenido=body_rutamodernisme_01en.htm">Modernism Route</a> website for details on where to find buildings not just by Gaud&iacute; but also by other key modernis t architects, such as Llu&iacute;s Dom&egrave;nech i Montaner (who designed the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palau_de_la_M%C3%BAsica_Catalana">Palau de la M&uacute;sica Catalana</a>) and Josep Puig i Cadafalch.</p><p><a href="http://www.cccb.org/en/marc-gandules-40665">cccb.org/en/marc-gandules-40665</a>; <i><i>Els vespres de la UB: from 1 July to 17 July, Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 585, </i></i><a href="http://www.ub.edu/vespres/">ub.edu/vespres</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/17/top-10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaTravelCataloniaEuropeSpainBudget travelShort breaksCity breaksWeekend breaksArchitectureAntoni GaudíTue, 17 Jun 2014 05:00:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jun/17/top-10-free-things-to-do-in-barcelonaPhotograph: flickrStroll on... Carretera de les Aigües trail. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27967393@N03/4341506935/">stickair/flickr</a>Photograph: flickrStroll on... Carretera de les Aigües trail. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/27967393@N03/4341506935/">stickair/flickr</a>Photograph: JULIAN MARTIN/EPAPicasso Museum. Photograph: Julian Martin/EPAPhotograph: JULIAN MARTIN/EPAPicasso Museum. Photograph: Julian Martin/EPAPhotograph: Andrea Ciambra/flickrWalls of the church in Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tchacky/8178327687/">Andrea Ciambra/flickr</a>Photograph: Andrea Ciambra/flickrWalls of the church in Plaça de Sant Felip Neri. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/tchacky/8178327687/">Andrea Ciambra/flickr</a>Photograph: AlamyBarceloneta beach. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: AlamyBarceloneta beach. Photograph: AlamyPhotograph: Cinema LliurePhotograph: Cinema LliurePhotograph: Cinema LliurePhotograph: Cinema LliurePhotograph: Alain Rouiller/flickrRent a boat in Parc de la Ciutadella. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/alainrouiller/8251423211/">Alain Rouiller/flickr</a>Photograph: Alain Rouiller/flickrRent a boat in Parc de la Ciutadella. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/alainrouiller/8251423211/">Alain Rouiller/flickr</a>Photograph: flickrVerdi street in Gràcia decorated as an urban forest. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/52124668@N02/4894823865/">Photogra Pher/flickr</a>Photograph: flickrVerdi street in Gràcia decorated as an urban forest. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/52124668@N02/4894823865/">Photogra Pher/flickr</a>Photograph: Peter Bowater/AlamyLa Boqueria market. Photograph: Peter Bowater/AlamyPhotograph: Peter Bowater/AlamyLa Boqueria market. Photograph: Peter Bowater/AlamyPhotograph: jpique/Getty ImagesMasterpiece of modernism... Gaudi's La Pedrera building. Photograph: jpique/Getty ImagesPhotograph: jpique/Getty ImagesMasterpiece of modernism... Gaudi's La Pedrera building. Photograph: jpique/Getty ImagesMarta Bausells2014-06-17T05:00:01Z10 of the best films set in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/21/top-10-films-on-barcelona
Barcelona Review editor <strong>Jill Adams</strong> selects her favourite films showcasing the vibrantly colourful, and gritty, Catalan capital<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide">As featured in our Barcelona city guide</a></strong> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/21/top-10-films-on-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaShort breaksCity breaksSpainEuropeFilmCultural tripsTravelCataloniaTue, 21 Jun 2011 12:08:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/21/top-10-films-on-barcelonaOptimum ReleasingPenelope Cruz as Maria Elena in the Woody Allen film Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Photograph: Optimum ReleasingJill Adams2011-06-21T12:08:00Z10 of the best high-end shops in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-designer-shops-barcelona
<strong>Leo Pollock</strong> of arts and listings guide Le Cool Barcelona selects their favourite high-end shops and boutiques – from designer fashion and interiors to gourmet food and wine<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">• As featured in our Barcelona city guide</a></strong><p>A bookshop, a gallery and an experimental exhibition space, ideal if you're shopping for the latest coffee-table book from your favourite photographer, authoritative volumes on architecture and contemporary art, the freshest design publications or a fashion magazine. With an interior of polished concrete and cast iron – as design savvy as the publications on offer – it's always a pleasure to peruse the books and if there's an exhibition on, all the better. This Raval gallery plays an active role in the Barcelona art scene, nurturing and providing a platform for local and international artists alike. <br />• <em>Carrer del Doctor Dou 10, +34 93 412 7199, </em><a href="http://www.rasbcn.com" title=""><em>rasbcn.com</em></a><em>. Open Tues-Sat noon-8pm</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-designer-shops-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>Shopping tripsTravelBarcelonaSpainCataloniaTop 10sShort breaksCity breaksWed, 08 Jun 2011 10:46:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-designer-shops-barcelonaPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRAlamyPhotograph: AlamyPRArt attack … you can spend hours browsing at Ras bookshop and gallery, Barcelona.PRArt attack … Ras bookshop and gallery, Barcelona.Leo Pollock2011-06-08T10:46:00Z10 of the best shops for bargains in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bargain-shops-barcelona
Le Cool Barcelona's <strong>Leo Pollock</strong> picks the best shops in Barcelona for bargain-hunters, from a 130-year-old magic shop to a two-store homage to vintage glamour in super-trendy Born<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>• As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>Dark walls piled high with retro furniture; teetering piles of chairs; lights swinging from overhead beams; mirrors and picture frames leaning against shelves stacked with lampshades, baskets, and vases; ancient electronic equipment recalling a time when touch screen, handheld and wireless were still the domain of science fiction. Muebles RAM is nostalgia distilled, packed into a warehouse next to Eixample's famous Els Encants market. It's a regular stomping ground for those in the film and theatre industries – arrive early to beat them to the best picks.<br />• <em>Carrer del Consell de Cent 547,+34 93 265 5780. Open from 8.30am </em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bargain-shops-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>Shopping tripsBarcelonaTravelSpainCataloniaTop 10sShort breaksCity breaksWed, 08 Jun 2011 10:37:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bargain-shops-barcelonaHenri Block/Henri BlockPhotograph: Henri BlockPRPRPRAlamyPhotograph: AlamyAlamyPhotograph: AlamyAlamyPhotograph: AlamyPRPRDiaz Wichmann/Diaz WichmannBlasts from the past... Muebles RAM warehouse in Eixample, BarcelonaHenri BlockFeel the magic … at El Rey de la Màgia you can find gadgets, books, manuals and every kind of accessory to assist you in your conjuring career. Photograph: Henri BlockLeo Pollock2011-06-08T10:37:00Z10 of the best spots for art in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-art-spaces-barcelona
There's more to Barcelona than Antoni Gaudí and the Picasso Museum. <strong>Jill Adams</strong>, editor of <a href="http://www.barcelonareview.com/" title="">The Barcelona Review</a>, taps into its unconventional arts scene<br /><br />• <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>How do you like your prostitutes? Speaking Catalan? English? Romanian? Prost&iacute;bulo Po&eacute;tico (Poetry Brothel) has plenty of whores for hire to give you … a private poetry reading in a candle-lit corner. This literary whoring takes place once a month in different bars. Though it's never quite the same, it usually begins with some kind of music, then Madame Eva introduces the <em>putas</em>, who each read some of their original work, permitting the customers to size 'em up, after which all barriers come down and you are free to pick your favourite, pay €1 for their services and retire to a corner. <br />• V<em>arious venues. Next event: 9pm, 16 June at Horiginal (caf&egrave;+poesia), Carrer Ferlandina 29, </em><a href="http://www.prostibulopoetico.com" title=""><em>prostibulopoetico.com</em></a><em>.</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-art-spaces-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaCultural tripsArt and designShort breaksCity breaksTravelTop 10sCataloniaSpainAntoni GaudíWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-art-spaces-barcelonaPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPoets for hire from Barcelona's Prostíbulo PoéticoPRPoets for hire from Barcelona's Prostíbulo Poético.Jill Adams2011-06-08T09:00:00Z10 of the best clubs in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-clubs-barcelona-music
From an Ibiza-style beach club to an underground gem, here's where to party after dark (and even later) in Barcelona, as picked by <strong>Leo Pollock</strong> of Le Cool Barcelona<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>• As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>Tucked away further up Avenida Diagonal from the main stretch of clubs and bars, BeCool remains largely the preserve of in-the-know locals. Weekends are the highlights at this medium-size venue, with electronic music predominating. The line-ups tend to be impressive: <a href="http://www.myspace.com/johntejadasounds" title="">John Tejada</a>, <a href="http://www.djulz.com/" title="">D'Julz</a>, and <a href="http://www.myspace.com/arilbrikha" title="">Aril Brikha</a> are a few of the DJs recently billed. The revolving dancefloor adds an element of comedy to proceedings, and the pop, rock and indie nights in the upstairs bar attract a loyal following of cool kids with even cooler haircuts. A good solid choice for the weekend.<br /><em>• Pla&ccedil;a Joan Llongueras 5, </em><a href="http://salabecool.com/" title=""><em>salabecool.com</em></a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-clubs-barcelona-music">Continue reading...</a>Bars and clubsBarcelonaTop 10sTravelShort breaksCity breaksWeekend breaksCataloniaSpainWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-clubs-barcelona-musicJordi Vidal/RedfernsThe Soundtrack Of Our Lives at Sala Apolo. Photograph: Jordi Vidal/RedfernsMiguel Antonio Pino/http://www.flickr.com/photos/miguelpino/2747018430/sizes/m/in/photostream/Takaya Sato at Macarena Club. Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/miguelpino/2747018430/in/photostream/">Miguel Antonio Pinto on Flickr</a> / All rights reservedPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRSuper powers … you might need them to master BeCool's revolving dancefloor in BarcelonaPRSuper powers … you might need them to master BeCool's revolving dancefloor in BarcelonaLeo Pollock2011-06-08T09:00:00Z10 of the best barrio bars in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-top-10-barrio-bars
Barcelona resident and Spotted by Locals contributor <strong>Bill Sinclair </strong>guides you to the bars most tourists will never stumble across, from basement dives to modernista masterpieces<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">• <strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>You'll need to take a short stroll on the wild side to visit this tiny piece of post-war Marseilles in the Raval. You may encounter prostitutes, rent boys, trannies, and absinthe-addled addicts, artists and scribblers en route. (Think Jean Genet and be mindful of your belongings.) <em>Courage mes amis </em>– it's worth it. Established in 1947 by an intrepid French female exile, this tiny, nicotine-patinated haunt hasn't changed since, only accreted more layers. With Edith Piaf, accordion music or live musicians warbling in the background, this place reeks atmosphere. Taking a pastis here is like being on the set of a classic noir movie while waiting for Peter Lorre to make an entrance. Ideal spot for intimate assignations or selling secrets.<br />•<em> Carrer Santa M&ograve;nica 4, </em><a href="http://www.barpastis.com" title=""><em>barpastis.com</em></a><em>. Open Sun-Thurs 7pm-2am, Fri, Sat 7pm-3am</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-top-10-barrio-bars">Continue reading...</a>Bars and clubsBarcelonaTravelTop 10sShort breaksCity breaksCataloniaSpainWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-top-10-barrio-barsPRAlamyPhotograph: AlamyAlamyPhotograph: AlamyPRFlickrImage: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/hectorgarcia/39471840/in/photostream/">Hector Garcia on Flickr</a> / <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/deed.en_GB">Some rights reserved</a> Photograph: FlickrHeybeans/http://www.flickr.com/photos/heybeans/3230574219/Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/heybeans/3230574219/">Heybeans</a> on Flickr / All rights reservedSara Vargas/Sara VargasPhotograph: Sara VargasBlandm/http://www.flickr.com/photos/blandm/3670879287/Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/blandm/3670879287/">Blandm on Flickr</a> / <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/deed.en_GB">Some rights reserved</a>PR picAlamyThe French connection ... Bar Pastís, Barcelona. Photograph: AlamyAlamyThe French connection ... Bar Pastis in the Raval barrio, Barcelona. Photograph: AlamyBill Sinclair2011-06-08T09:00:00Z10 of the best pensiones in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bandbs-pensiones-barcelona
Barcelona resident <strong>Sally Davies</strong> picks guesthouses that offer a little more than the rest – from stunning views and central locations to stylish decor and original modernista features<br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">• <strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>The perfect metaphor for Barcelona, the Hostal Goya is effortlessly up-to-the-minute without sacrificing any of its historical charm. Its 19 rooms are sharp and stylish, minimally decorated but with great floral splashes on the bedspreads, for example, or the occasional baroque headboard, while the original features of the <em>modernista </em>(art nouveau) building are carefully maintained – typical mosaic floors, high ceilings and moulded cornices. In the lounge area there is a computer for guests' use alongside sofas and tea- and coffee-making facilities. There are also self-contained apartments available to rent for up to six people.<br />• <em>Carrer de Pau Claris 74, +34 93 302 2565, </em><a href="http://www.hostalgoya.com" title=""><em>hostalgoya.com</em></a><em>, doubles from €85</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bandbs-pensiones-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>HotelsBarcelonaShort breaksTravelCity breaksTop 10sCataloniaSpainWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-bandbs-pensiones-barcelonaPRHistory lessons … Barcelona's Hostal Goya combines modern style and historic charmPRHistory lessons … Barcelona's Hostal Goya combines modern comfort with historical charmSally Davies2011-06-08T09:00:00Z10 of the best tapas bars in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-tapas-bars-barcelona
Even if bull's tail stew doesn't appeal, spicy sausage or squid probably will – and Spotted by Locals expert <strong>Bill Sinclair</strong> has tracked down Barcelona's best, but often least known, tapas bars<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">• <strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>Lined from floor to ceiling with wines and spirits from across the globe, this lively bodega is justly famed for its unique and exquisite <em>montaditos </em>modelled from wicked combinations of salmon with truffled honey, tuna dotted with caviar and balsamic syrup, and plates of pungent cheeses served with transparent fruit jelly, glazed chestnuts and pickles arranged like artworks. And, there's <em>mojama </em>(salt-cured, air-dried tuna), canned seafood and <em>croquetas</em>. Can't make up your mind? Ask the maestro behind the bar to assemble you a plate. Intense flavours create an unforgettable experience. Don't expect fried fish, or fried anything. Blonde, brown and black beers on tap. They serve their own-label Belgian beer, excellent wines and cavas. Standing room only.<br />• <em>Carrer del Poeta Cabanyes 25, +34 93 442 3142. Open Mon-Fri noon-4pm, 7pm-10.30pm, Sat noon-4pm, closed August</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-tapas-bars-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>Food and drinkTravelBarcelonaSpainFood & drinkShort breaksCity breaksTop 10sCataloniaWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-tapas-bars-barcelonaIn Praise of Sardines/www.flickr.com/photos/83096974@N00/3091550131/Photograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/83096974@N00/3091550131/">In Praise of Sardines on Flickr</a> / <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/2.0/deed.en_GB">Some rights reserved</a>dondu/flickr.comPhotograph: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/dondu/4688006792/">d.o.n.d.u. on Flickr</a> / All rights reservedhttp://www.la-boca.com/Photograph: <a href="http://www.la-boca.com/">la-boca.com</a>AlamyPhotograph: AlamyPRPRsalir.comPhotograph: <a href="http://www.salir.com">salir.com</a>PRAlamyPhotograph: AlamyCesar Rangel/AFP/Getty ImagesSo good they named it twice ... Quimet i Quimet, Barcelona. Photograph: Cesar Rangel/AFP/Getty ImagesCesar Rangel/AFP/Getty ImagesQuimet i Quimet
Photograph: Cesar Rangel/AFP/Getty ImagesBill Sinclair2011-06-08T09:00:00Z10 of the best boutique hotels in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-boutique-hotels-barcelona
The ultimate boutique hotels chosen by Barcelona-based travel writer <strong>Sally Davies</strong>. Take your pick from the modernist Ohla Hotel, the kooky Casa Camper or Kelly Hoppen's Murmuri<br /><br />• <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>The fa&ccedil;ade of the latest addition to Barcelona's luxury hotel scene is adorned with a thousand eyes on stalks, courtesy of surrealist Catalan designer Frederic Amat. Inside the tone is more sombre, the monochrome chic of the rooms softened only by the oak floors and velvet bed throws. The design details are well thought out, however – finding the hidden toilet can take a moment or two – and the extras a nice surprise: &quot;What scent would you like for your bedlinen, madam?&quot; Michelin-starred chef Xavier Franco has transferred his superb Sa&uuml;c restaurant to the Barri G&ograve;tic, and the crowning glory is the rooftop deck with luxurious daybeds and a glass-sided pool.<br />• <em>Via Laietana 49, +34 93 341 5050, </em><a href="http://ohlahotel.com" title=""><em>ohlahotel.com</em></a><em>, doubles from €211</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-boutique-hotels-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>HotelsTop 10sBarcelonaCity breaksTravelShort breaksCataloniaSpainWed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-boutique-hotels-barcelonaPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRPRHit the deck … the rooftop pool is the crowning glory of the Ohla Hotel, BarcelonaPRHit the deck … the rooftop pool of the Ohla Hotel, BarcelonaSally Davies2011-06-08T09:00:00ZSonar's soundtrack to Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/sonar-soundtrack-playlist-to-barcelona
As part of our new online city guides, we asked music experts to compile a playlist to their city. Here Enric Palau and Ricard Robles, directors of the <a href="http://2011.sonar.es/?dist=1">Sónar festival</a>, pick their top tunes for Barcelona<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">• <strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>The Disboot label operates from the historic industrial district of Poblenou and has been building an interesting catalogue of fractured electronica looking sideways at the post-dubstep scene. Downliners Sekt (which will feature in the showcase of the label in S&oacute;nar 2011) are right now its most important project and the one with the most international appeal.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/sonar-soundtrack-playlist-to-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>MusicDance musicElectronic musicBarcelonaTop 10sTravelCity breaksShort breaksSpainCataloniaWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/sonar-soundtrack-playlist-to-barcelonaPRSonar FestivalEnric Palau and Ricard Robles2011-06-08T08:00:00Z10 of the best books set in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-books-barcelona-burgess
<strong>Malcolm Burgess</strong>, publisher of the <a href="http://www.oxygenbooks.co.uk/" title="">City-Lit series</a>, selects his favourite reads for the Catalan capital – from George Orwell to Juan Goytisolo<br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>• As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>The story of Bar&ccedil;a, the city's legendary football club founded in 1898, is also the epic story of Barcelona and Catalan nationalism. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-books-barcelona-burgess">Continue reading...</a>Top 10sBarcelonaTravelBooksCultural tripsShort breaksCity breaksCataloniaSpainWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-books-barcelona-burgessPublic DomainMore than a club ... Jimmy Burns' BarçaMalcolm Burgess2011-06-08T08:00:00Z10 of the best literary haunts in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-literary-haunts-barcelona
Discover where Picasso supped and where to find inspiration over coffee or cocktails, with Barcelona writer <strong>Matthew Tree</strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title="">•<strong> As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>The original Els Quatre Gats – it reopened in 1978 – was only open from 1897 to 1903, but enough happened to make it a place of pilgrimage for artists. Opened by Pere Romeu, a Catalan who'd worked as a waiter in a Paris cabaret and wanted to create a similarly bohemian atmosphere in Barcelona, it became the meeting place of painters Miquel Utrillo, Ramon Casas and Santiago Rusi&ntilde;ol. One of their hangers-on was the teenage Picasso, whose first solo exhibition was held in Els Quatre Gats. Today it is worth a look and a drink in the Barri G&ograve;tic, but the food is overpriced. The modernist interior has indeed been beautifully restored, but not the bohemian feel that attracted its first customers. <br />• <em>Carrer de Montsi&oacute; 3, + 34 93 302 4140, </em><a href="http://www.4gats.com" title=""><em>4gats.com</em></a><em>. Open daily 10am-1am</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-literary-haunts-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>Bars and clubsBarcelonaCity breaksShort breaksTravelCultural tripsTop 10sSpainCataloniaWed, 08 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/top-10-literary-haunts-barcelonaPRPRPRPRPRAlbert Pijuan/Albert PijuanPhotograph: Albert PijuanSalir.comPhotograph: Salir.comAstrolabiPhotograph: AstrolabiPRAlamyCopy cat … follow Picasso to Els Quatre Gats, Barcelona. Photograph: AlamyAlamyCopy cat … follow Picasso to Els Quatre Gats, Barcelona. Photograph: AlamyMatthew Tree2011-06-08T08:00:00Z10 of the best hostels in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-10-best-hostels
Whether you're a hard-core party person or a Modernista mansion type, <strong>Sally Davies</strong> can point you at the best budget beds in the Catalan capital<br /><br />• <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide" title=""><strong>As featured in our Barcelona city guide</strong></a><p>A Barcelona institution in the best possible sense, the recently renovated Kabul has been housing backpackers since the pre-Olympic days, before the sailors and prostitutes patrolling the nearby Rambla were replaced by Geordie stag parties. It's an unbeatable location, right on the arcaded Pla&ccedil;a Reial in the centre of the Barri G&ograve;tic, but is really aimed at hard-core party people – the cheap beer and all-night comings and goings of the clubbers make it less fun for anyone here for a quiet weekend of sightseeing, especially in the larger rooms (mixed dorms sleep up to 20 people). <br />• <em>Pla&ccedil;a Reial 17, +34 93 318 5190, </em><a href="http://www.kabul.es" title=""><em>kabul.es</em></a><em>, shared dorm rooms from €20pp, including breakfast</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-10-best-hostels">Continue reading...</a>HotelsBarcelonaCity breaksShort breaksTravelTop 10sSpainBudget travelCataloniaTue, 07 Jun 2011 23:25:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/08/barcelona-10-best-hostelsPR"An institution in the best possible sense"... Hostel Kabul, BarcelonaPRBarcelona's Gothic Point hostel in El Born.Sally Davies2011-06-07T23:25:00Z10 of the best bistros in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/04/top-10-bistros-restaurants-barcelona
<strong>Tara Stevens</strong> of <a href="http://www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/" title="">Barcelona Metropolitan</a> picks out the frontrunners of the Catalan bistronomía movement<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/series/barcelona-city-guide">• As featured in our Barcelona city guide</a></strong><p>This is one of the longest-running restaurants in the Born and a favourite among local workers for hearty offal dishes and metre-long sandwiches, so the owner's decision to sell last year was met with concern. But, in the sympathetic hands of Kate Preston and Jos&eacute; Lombardero (who also own Taller de Tapas at Carrer de l'Argenter&iacute;a 51), after a retro revamp the spirit of the place lives on. You have to go a long way these days to find breaded brains with lemon or liver cooked in sherry, but you'll get them perfectly done here alongside robust family recipes like Jos&eacute;'s <em>suquet</em> (Catalan fish stew) and rice dishes, or Kate's Eton Mess which is wildly popular with their Catalan clientele. <br />• <em>Passeig del Born 36, +34 93 319 5088, average €25. Open daily 8am-1am</em></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/04/top-10-bistros-restaurants-barcelona">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaFood and drinkRestaurantsTravelCity breaksShort breaksTop 10sSpainCataloniaFri, 03 Jun 2011 23:05:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2011/jun/04/top-10-bistros-restaurants-barcelonaFlickr<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/encantadisimo/2667602267">encantadisimo</a> on Flickr / All rights reservedPRPRPRMarc Goodwin/Marc GoodwinCasa Delfin. Photograph: Marc GoodwinPRRacing demon … excellent Spanish classics at Barcelona's frenetic CaneteTara Stevens2011-06-03T23:05:00Z10 top budget hotels in Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/may/16/barcelona.hotels
Barcelona resident Graham Keeley recommends some great-value places to stay - all for less than €100<p>Finding a decent place to stay in Barcelona below €100 a night is very hard. It is a pretty expensive place these days. Our Spain correspondent and Barcelona resident Graham Keeley does the groundwork for you.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/may/16/barcelona.hotels">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaHotelsTravelSpainBudget travelTop 10sCataloniaFri, 16 May 2008 09:11:47 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/may/16/barcelona.hotelsPRHotel España ... a jewel of Catalan Modernism from the era of Antoni GaudiPRGraham Keeley2008-05-16T09:11:47ZReaders' tips on Barcelonahttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/feb/15/barcelona.readerstips
The best places to eat, drink, play and stay in Spain's second city, chosen by our readers<p>Ten of the best... readers' tips on Barcelona</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/feb/15/barcelona.readerstips">Continue reading...</a>BarcelonaSpainFood and drinkHotelsTravelCultural tripsShort breaksCataloniaFri, 15 Feb 2008 15:53:27 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/feb/15/barcelona.readerstipsBike tours take in the main sights such as Gaudi's Sagrada Familia cathedral. Photograph: Jose Fuste Raga/CorbisGuardian Staff2008-02-15T15:53:27ZTop 10 hostelshttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/jan/29/designer.hostels
The credit crunch may have scaled back your holiday ambitions. Fear not - as this year's 'Hoscar' awards have shown, cheap can be classy. Sean Dodson checks out some of the best designed hostels around<p>How far the humble hostel has travelled. The other night, in Dublin, Krakow's <a href="http://www.flamingo-hostel.com">Flamingo Hostel</a> was crowned the best in the world at the 2007 <a href="http://www.hostelworld.com/viewtravelfeature.php/FeatNO.61">&quot;Hoscars&quot;</a> ceremony. </p><p>More than 600,000 customers at <a href="http://www.hostelworld.com">Hostelworld.com</a> selected the Flamingo from more than 15,000 hostels around the world. They were asked to rate each based on six criteria: character, security, location, staff, fun and cleanliness. </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/jan/29/designer.hostels">Continue reading...</a>TravelBudget travelPolandParisSingaporePragueSwitzerlandBuenos AiresValenciaBarcelonaLondonUnited StatesAustralasiaTop 10sHostelsCataloniaWed, 30 Jan 2008 16:07:23 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/travel/2008/jan/29/designer.hostelsBohemian elegance ... the cafe bar at Prague's Czech InnSean Dodson2008-01-30T16:07:23Z